Kesha feels “free” after finally escaping from Dr. Luke’s label

It’s been a long battle, but after nearly two decades, Kesha is finally completely free from Dr. Luke’s grasp. On December 18, it was announced that the “Praying” singer had split from her management and label — that label being Luke’s Kemosabe Records, which signed Kesha in 2005 when she was 18 years old.

Now, Kesha is celebrating her freedom. On TikTok, she shared a video of her running into the ocean, captioned, “I haven’t felt this free since I was 18.” Kesha is now 36, meaning she’s spent half her life signed to Kemosabe and attached to Luke.

Kesha’s fans, especially those who grew up with the singer, were moved by the video. “Why did this just heal something in me?” one commenter asked.

Culture, unfiltered

Twice a week, our newsletter will bring you the pulse of queer culture, from the tastemakers to the groundbreakers.

“What an incredible story that will inspire women forever. You won,” wrote another.

Another video shared by a fan shows Kesha signing an autograph before saying, “I’m free, I can do what I want.” (The fan was speaking for all of us when they replied, “Mother! Yes, ma’am!”)

“I’m free, I can do what I want!”

— Kesha after parting ways with Dr. Luke’s label. pic.twitter.com/oE74pU5fMB

— Pop Crave (@PopCrave) December 21, 2023

Kesha’s legal battle with Luke began in 2014, when she claimed that Luke drugged and raped her in 2005. He denied the allegations and countersued for defamation — but even after the lawsuits began, Kesha’s record deal with Kemosabe continued. She released five albums and three EPs with the label, from 2010’s Animal to this year’s Gag Order, which came out in May. Just a month after its release, Kesha and Luke settled out of court in June.

Following the announcement of her split from Kemosabe, Kesha also shared a photo of herself nude in nature, with the caption, “Coming back home to me,” likely referencing her newfound freedom. It’s the start of a new chapter, and we can’t wait to see what’s next.

Related:

Kesha Describes New Album ‘Gag Order’ as the ‘Most Intimate Thing I’ve Ever Created’

“I feel as if there has been an implied gag order for a very long time now.”

Saint Harison’s ego might talk for him, but his music speaks for itself

The Southampton-born singer-songwriter blends soul-baring lyrics with soul, R&B, Motown, and pop, and sky high vocals that bless the ears of all his fans.